Ahimsa – The Heart of Jainism
Recognizing a Jain – Beyond Vegetarian Diet and Non Violence
Most people would recognize a Jain by their vegetarian lifestyle or their strong belief in non-violence only. While this is true on the surface, the Jain principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) goes far deeper.
It is not just about avoiding harm to animals or refraining from physical violence – it is a comprehensive way of living rooted in compassion, mindfulness, and deep respect for all life.
Ahimsa as Expression, Anekāntavāda as Source
Ahimsa in Jainism is often misunderstood as mere non-violence, but its true source lies in Anekāntavāda. This excerpt explains how Jain philosophy views Ahimsa as the outward expression of inner intellectual humility, making Anekāntavāda the foundational principle behind lasting non-violence and liberation.
How Jain Philosophy Illuminates the Truth of Absence
Excerpts from Speaking Tree Blog TOI 10 April 2025 What is real? What does it mean to know something? Can absence itself be a form of truth? Jain philosophy offers profound answers to these timeless questions through its concepts of pramāṇa (true knowledge), abhāva (absence), and anekānta (non-absolutism). Together,
Anekantvad, Ahimsa, and Roots of Modern Pluralism
Excerpts from Speaking Tree Blog TOI 09 April 2025 It is essential to reflect on how many contemporary socio-economic systems, political ideologies, and even scientific theories echo the timeless wisdom of Mahavir, who lived over 2,600 years ago. Among his most profound contributions is the principle of Anekāntavāda—often translated as